Abstract:
Raptor Detection Technologies, LLC announced today that it has been contracted by the US Navy to supply its line of "Substance Activated Fast Evaluation Technology" (SAFE-T)* products to NAVEOD (Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal). Raptor Technology's ability to accurately identify a potential threat during a time critical situation meets the military's need for simple but highly effective products that offer anywhere at any time detection capability.

Raptor's SAFE-T products are based on a patented nanotechnology called molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs). MIPs are capable of selectively sensing microscopic amounts of explosives or other molecules that are dangerous for humans and the environment, such as toxins, chemical agents, biological agents, pesticides, poisons, and explosives.

Initially developed at The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL), Raptor's SAFE-T MIPs produce a dramatic color change reaction that is visible with the naked eye when they detect target molecules - such as dangerous materials used in terrorist attacks. If a trace amount of explosive material is present on a person's skin, or finger, for example, it may capture a visible, colorful fingerprint when it touches MIP material. This color change is visibly detectable within seconds of exposure.

NAVEOD is tasked with rendering safe all types of ordnance, including improvised, chemical, biological, and nuclear. They perform land and underwater location, identification, render-safe, and recovery (or disposal) of foreign and domestic ordnance. They also conduct demolition of hazardous munitions, pyrotechnics, and retrograde explosives using detonation and burning techniques and forward deploy and fully integrate with the various Combatant Commanders, Special Operations Forces (SOF), and various warfare units within the Navy, Marine Corps, and Army. They are also called upon to support military and civilian law enforcement agencies, as well as the Secret Service.

EOD Technicians' missions take them to all environments, and every climate, in every part of the world. They have many assets available to arrive to their mission, from open- and closed-circuit scuba and surface supplied diving rigs, to parachute insertion from fixed-wing aircraft and fast-rope, abseil, and Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction (SPIE) from rotary aircraft, to small boats and tracked vehicles.

Already in use by the US Army and now NAVEOD, Raptor's SAFE-T MIPs are also available to law enforcement, security and first responders. SAFE-T products can be purchased in various forms, including SAFE-T SPRAY and SAFE-T WIPES. A Trace Collection Wipe is also available that is used in conjunction with SAFE-T SPRAY. Kits are available and are configured to meet the specific requirement of the customer.

SAFE-T MIPs are robust, stable and can be used in harsh environments. Additionally, they are inexpensive, safe to produce and can be sprayed, printed or spin-coated into commercial devices for the detection of a wide range of substances, compounds and biological agents. Other potential uses for SAFE-T MIPs include aviation and public transit security, access control and incorporation into event tickets. The incremental costs are low, creating a viable alternative to expensive equipment that requires power, maintenance and ongoing recalibration and extensive training.

"We are extremely proud to support NAVEOD's critical mission and provide them with products and technology that will assist in the defense of our nation," said Jonathan P. Gluckman, Ph.D., Raptor's General Manager. "Detection of trace explosives is as simple as looking for a visible color change when the SAFE-T Wipe or Spray is used. Our goal is to help our men and women in uniform perform their jobs as efficiently and safely as possible."

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About Raptor Detection Technologies, LLCRaptor Detection Technologies, LLC is strategically positioned to meet the needs of both government and private sector entities that require security solutions. The Company’s SAFE-T line of products and other technologies offer robust detection and forensics collection solutions as tested by world renowned universities and the US military. Raptor Detection Technologies is dedicated to the continued development of products with enhanced capability and solutions that meet homeland security’s rapidly changing needs. The Company is headquartered in Columbia, MD.